Rockland Post Desk
Rockland County is stepping in to help residents who could be affected by a temporary pause in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. With the federal government shutdown threatening SNAP disbursements, county lawmakers acted fast.
On Monday, Nov. 3, the Rockland County Legislature voted unanimously to release $2 million in emergency funding for local food programs. Ed Day, County Executive, called it “a necessary step” to support families facing the disruption. The funds are aimed at feeding programs and food pantries across the county that expect to see a surge in demand.
State officials are also helping. Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York, announced $106 million statewide for food assistance as SNAP benefits are delayed. But local nonprofits warn that the need is immediate.
“This is an emergency, plain and simple. When Washington fails to act, local government must step up,” Day said in a press release.
“With food costs already high and household budgets stretched thin, the sudden loss of SNAP benefits will hit our most vulnerable residents first.”
At a press conference earlier, legislators clarified the stakes: “SNAP cuts will leave thousands of Rockland residents, including seniors, children, and families without enough to eat.” stated Beth Davidson, County Legislator
Meanwhile, on social media:
The Bruce‑news page for Rockland County posted on Facebook: “Without this help now, Rockland County families, seniors, veterans and others will absolutely go without food.”
The official Rockland County Instagram feed announced: “The Rockland County Legislature has announced a $2 million emergency funding allocation to support local food pantries.” I
Several Rockland organizations are already mobilizing to help residents:
Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland — assisting families with SNAP applications and providing food distribution.
Cornell Cooperative Extension Rockland County — offering nutrition education and guidance for SNAP‑eligible households.
Ramapo‑Spring Valley Community FoodBank — serving southern Rockland.
Northern Rockland Iron Mountain Food Pantry — serving the northern part of the county.
Residents should know that if they are already receiving SNAP, EBT card balances remain available. Applications and recertifications are still being processed, and any missed benefits will be issued once federal funding resumes.
Local voices show the human side of the issue. Alexis Rivera, a Rockland County Community College student, said, “It’s worrying because families like mine rely on SNAP. Even a short pause can make it hard to cover groceries for the week. I’m glad the county stepped in, but it shows how quickly things can change.”